Summary

In a compelling, richly researched novel that draws from thousands of letters and original sources, best-selling authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie tell the fascinating, untold story of Thomas Jefferson's eldest daughter, Martha "Patsy" Jefferson Randolph - a woman who kept the secrets of our most enigmatic founding father and shaped an American legacy.
From her earliest days, Patsy Jefferson knows that though her father loves his family dearly, his devotion to his country runs deeper still. As Thomas Jefferson's oldest daughter, she becomes his helpmate, protector, and constant companion in the wake of her mother's death, traveling with him when he becomes American minister to France.
It is in Paris, at the glittering court and among the first tumultuous days of revolution, that 15-year-old Patsy learns about her father's troubling liaison with Sally Hemings, a slave girl her own age. Meanwhile Patsy has fallen in love - with her father's protégé, William Short, a staunch abolitionist and ambitious diplomat. Torn between love, principles, and the bonds of family, Patsy questions whether she can choose a life as William's wife and still be a devoted daughter.
Her choice will follow her in the years to come to Virginia farmland, Monticello, and even the White House. And as scandal, tragedy, and poverty threaten her family, Patsy must decide how much she will sacrifice to protect her father's reputation, in the process defining not just his political legacy but that of the nation he founded.

Amazing!

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful

5 out of 5 stars
By
SDR
on
25-05-16

Fantastic!

I loved this book! It was well researched (as much as it could be given the edited nature of Thomas Jefferson's collection of letters) and very well written. A beautiful historic novel. For me, Cassandra Campbell's narration was a very integral part. She was perfect as the voice of Patsy Jefferson Randolph. Her accent was spot on.

Absolutely Loved This Story!

This book is so well written. It brings to life so much history and makes one believe they are witnessing these important figures in our past come to life. The complicated interaction of one of America's most important families is fascinating. The narrator did a superb job bringing this story to life. These characters became so real that I must admit I cried in some parts of the story. So well done!